Battle of the Bookshelf Speakers: B&W 606 S3 vs 707 S2

Introduction to Bookshelf Speakers

The right pair of bookshelf speakers can transform your listening experience, whether you're setting up a dedicated music room or building a home theater system. Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 ($550) and 707 S2 ($959) represent two different approaches to high-fidelity sound in a compact form factor.

Before diving into the specifics, let's understand what makes bookshelf speakers special. Unlike floor-standing speakers, these compact units are designed to excel in smaller spaces while delivering precise imaging (the ability to place instruments and voices accurately in the soundstage) and detailed sound. B&W has been a leader in this category for decades, known for innovations like their Continuum cone technology that reduces distortion in the crucial midrange frequencies.

Performance Deep Dive

Sound Quality

The 606 S3 introduces B&W's latest titanium dome tweeter technology, representing a significant upgrade from previous aluminum designs. This new tweeter delivers exceptionally smooth high frequencies while maintaining excellent detail - imagine hearing the subtle brush of a cymbal with both the initial impact and the delicate decay that follows. The decoupled design (where the tweeter is isolated from the cabinet) reduces unwanted vibrations that could color the sound.

In contrast, the 707 S2 uses a carbon dome tweeter that pushes the frequency breakup point to 47kHz - well beyond human hearing. This results in extremely clean high frequencies, though some listeners find the newer titanium design in the 606 S3 more natural sounding.

Both speakers use B&W's acclaimed Continuum cone for midrange and bass frequencies, but implementation differs:

• 606 S3: 6.5" driver with more bass extension
• 707 S2: 5" driver with tighter control

Power and Room Considerations

A key difference emerges in power handling and sensitivity:

• 606 S3: 88dB sensitivity means it's easier to drive with modestly powered amplifiers
• 707 S2: 84dB sensitivity requires more power to achieve the same volume

In practical terms, this means the 606 S3 will play louder with less powerful amplifiers - important if you're using an entry-level receiver or integrated amp. The 707 S2 demands more power but can reward that investment with slightly better control and detail when properly driven.

Room integration also differs significantly. The 606 S3's rear-firing Flowport (B&W's term for their bass port design) seems more forgiving of placement near walls, while the 707 S2 demands more careful positioning to achieve optimal bass response.

Value Analysis

Released in 2023, the 606 S3 represents B&W's latest technology at a remarkably accessible price point. The 707 S2, while more expensive, targets a slightly different market segment with its more refined presentation.

Consider these value factors:

• Technology: 606 S3 has newer drivers and crossover design
• Build quality: Both excellent, with similar cabinet construction
• Longevity: B&W's track record suggests both will last many years
• Resale value: Higher-end 707 S2 may retain value better

Real-World Application

Music Performance

Both speakers excel with acoustic music, revealing subtle details in recordings:

• The 606 S3 presents a slightly more forward, energetic sound
• The 707 S2 offers a more laid-back, refined presentation

For rock and electronic music, the 606 S3's larger driver provides more impact, while the 707 S2 prioritizes control over raw power.

Home Theater Use

In a home theater context, the 606 S3's higher sensitivity and better bass extension make it more versatile as part of a surround system. It can handle movie soundtracks with authority while maintaining clarity for dialogue. The 707 S2 excels in detail retrieval but might need a subwoofer sooner in a home theater setup.

Technical Features Matter

Notable technical highlights:

• Both use B&W's Flowport design for controlled bass
• Upgraded binding posts on 606 S3 from 700 series
• Bi-wire capability on both models
• Magnetic grilles for clean aesthetics

How to Decide

Your choice should primarily depend on:

1. Room size and acoustics
   • Smaller rooms (under 200 sq ft): Either works well
2. Medium rooms: 606 S3 has advantage
3. Larger rooms: Consider other options
4. System matching
   • Budget amplification: Choose 606 S3
5. High-end electronics: 707 S2 scales better
6. Listening preferences
   • Critical listening: 707 S2 offers marginally better detail
7. Casual enjoyment: 606 S3 more engaging
8. Home theater: 606 S3 more versatile
9. Budget considerations
   • Best value: 606 S3 at $550
10. Premium performance: 707 S2 at $959

Conclusion

The 606 S3 represents exceptional value, incorporating B&W's latest technology in a versatile package that works well for both music and home theater. Its higher sensitivity and more forgiving nature make it easier to integrate into most systems.

The 707 S2 remains an excellent speaker, offering slightly more refinement and detail when properly set up and powered. However, its higher price and more demanding nature make it a more specialized choice.

For most users, the 606 S3's combination of performance, value, and versatility makes it the smarter choice. Only dedicated audiophiles with optimized listening rooms and high-end electronics will likely appreciate the subtle advantages of the 707 S2.

Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 Bookshelf Speaker - Pair Deals and Prices

Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 Bookshelf Speaker - Pair Deals and Prices